Srinagar, Apr 10 (KNO): Government Medical College (GMC) Udhampur is facing a severe manpower crisis, with an overwhelming majority of sanctioned posts lying vacant, raising serious concerns about the quality of healthcare services being delivered at the institution.
According to details accessed by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), out of a total of 236 sanctioned posts at GMC Udhampur, only 53 personnel are currently in position, while as many as 183 posts remain vacant, severely affecting the functioning of the hospital.
The data further reveals a significant shortage across key categories. Of the 67 sanctioned posts of Assistant Professors, only 34 are filled—including six on an academic arrangement basis—while 39 positions continue to remain vacant. Similarly, the situation among Medical Officers is alarming, with just one doctor in place against 12 sanctioned posts, leaving 11 posts unfilled.
The nursing segment, considered the backbone of patient care, is also under immense strain. Out of 163 sanctioned staff nurse posts, only 30 are currently filled on an academic arrangement basis, while a staggering 133 positions are vacant.
The situation at the Trauma Centre Udhampur is equally grim. Of the 34 sanctioned posts, merely three are filled, while 31 positions are lying vacant, severely impacting emergency and critical care services.
Residents have expressed deep concern over the staff shortage, stating that the lack of adequate manpower is directly affecting patient care and leading to hardships for those seeking treatment.
“Patients are suffering due to the shortage of doctors and paramedical staff. The government must act swiftly to fill these vacancies and ensure proper healthcare facilities,” said a resident.
The locals have urged the higher authorities to take immediate steps to address the issue and strengthen the healthcare infrastructure at GMC Udhampur.
Meanwhile, a health department official, while acknowledging the shortage of staff, said that efforts are underway to improve infrastructure and augment manpower at Government Medical Colleges across the Union Territory.
“We are working on upgrading facilities and ensuring that adequate staff are posted to meet the growing healthcare demands,” the official said, adding that the issue is being addressed on priority—(KNO)